Atheism Quote by Jacob Bronowski
“It is often said that the progression from simple to complex runs counter to the normal statistics of chance that are formalized in the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Strictly speaking, we could avoid this criticism simply by insisting that the Second Law does not apply to living systems in the environment in which we find them. For the Second Law applies only when there is no overall flow of energy into or out of a system, whereas all living systems are sustained by a net inflow of energy.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Ascent of Man by Jacob Bronowski, 1973
Complexity in living systems arises because they constantly receive energy, unlike isolated systems governed by entropy.
In simple terms: Living things get complex due to energy input.
Key Takeaway
Recognize energy flow as a source of order.
Themes
science
entropy
complexity
biology
Mood
curious
analytical
Type
scientific
explanatory
When to use this quote
- Ecosystem dynamics
- cellular metabolism
- evolutionary development
- engineering of self‑organizing systems
Key Concepts
Thermodynamics
open systems
energy flow
Questions to Reflect On
- How does energy availability shape biological complexity?
- Can we design artificial systems that mimic this energy‑driven order?
A Different Perspective
Entropy still limits organization without energy input.
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